Des Moines City Council will seek federal funds for two projects

Wednesday, February 20, 2013 1:31 PM

The Des Moines City Council voted today (Feb. 20) to recommend two proposed construction projects for federal disaster relief funds. One of the projects is slated for development by Jim Cownie, Paul Hayes and Tim Rypma on a vacant lot currently owned by the city at 350 E. Locust St. The nearly $6.4 million, five-story building would have 20 residential units with commercial space on the first floor and an office penthouse. The developers would buy the lot from the city. Because of the building's height, a variance will be needed to allow the commercial space. Council also will recommend that a three-building residential project proposed by Hatch Development Group LLC receive funding. The project is slated for Sixth and Forest avenues. Each project is eligible for up to $3 million in federal assistance.